Trying to shed light on the darkness of human suffering, Michael King’s “The Rescuers” travels across Europe to chronicle the actions of those who saved Jews during World War II. While the documentary marshals an impressive array of survivors and visits several international locations, it grindingly adheres to an unwieldy tour-style presentation, with more than a few rough spots and, at times, an unpolished look.

The British historian Martin Gilbert is paired with the young Rwandan activist Stephanie Nyombayire to link genocide across the generations. They retrace stories of those called “righteous” by Yad Vashem, the Holocaust memorial in Israel, for courageous acts of rescue. From a British princess to Japanese and Swiss diplomats, they took extraordinary action to counter the Nazi threat. Their deeds are explained here in terms of “the mystery of goodness,” but the assumptions behind that idea could use some more discussion.

The film’s series of stories feature Mr. Gilbert’s learned asides and are punctuated by rather awkward chats and unnecessary re-enactments. Though released in a theater, this documentary looks better suited to television.